Palmer, Alaska, sits in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, about 42 miles northeast of Anchorage. People know it for its farming roots, its 1930s colonist history, and the Alaska State Fair. Additionally, the city hosts markets, parades, and holiday celebrations all year. This guide covers the best annual events in Palmer Alaska, from a summer farmers market to a Christmas fireworks show. So, grab your coat and plan your visit.
Friday Fling is Palmer’s premier outdoor farmers market. The Greater Palmer Chamber of Commerce coordinates it, and the market began in 2002. The 2026 season ran every Friday from May 15 through August 14, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. It takes place at the Downtown Palmer Pavilion (720 S. Valley Way). For example, shoppers found locally grown produce, handmade crafts, food from mobile chefs, and live music. Additionally, a weekly Friday Fling Music Series featured local and regional musicians.
Colony Days is Palmer’s signature summer celebration, and it honors the city’s agricultural roots and pioneer history. The Greater Palmer Chamber hosts it in downtown Palmer. Its 2026 festival ran June 12–14. For example, the Colony Days Parade stepped off Saturday, June 13, at 11 a.m. Additionally, the weekend featured comical bed races, a maker’s market, family activities, live music, food trucks, and classic cars.
The Alaska Scottish Highland Games celebrate Scottish heritage and traditions at the Alaska State Fairgrounds in Palmer. The 2026 games took place June 27–28. Check Visit Palmer’s events calendar for the next dates.
The Alaska State Fair is Palmer’s biggest annual event, and it has run in Palmer since 1936. The 2026 fair ran August 21 through September 7 at the Alaska State Fairgrounds (2075 Glenn Hwy.). It opened at 11 a.m. on open days and closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. For example, visitors enjoyed giant vegetables, livestock, carnival rides, and free entertainment. Additionally, Colony Village preserves historic buildings from the Valley’s early days. The fair set a record in 2003 with 312,419 visitors.
Each October, the Greater Palmer Chamber hosts Trick or Treat Street in downtown Palmer. The 2026 event takes place Friday, October 30, from 4 to 7 p.m. For example, local businesses hand out treats and run fun activities for kids. Additionally, the Chamber publishes an official map of participating stops.
Colony Christmas celebrates the holiday season in downtown Palmer. The Greater Palmer Chamber hosts the weekend each December, typically on the second Friday and Saturday. For example, activities include a hayride through town, a Gingerbread Contest, a Cornhole Tournament, and Cookie Contests. Additionally, multiple craft fairs offer gifts and treats from local artisans. The weekend ends with the Parade of Lights and fireworks over Palmer. Check the Chamber’s website for the 2026 schedule.
Palmer’s annual events fill the calendar from summer markets to holiday lights. Additionally, most take place in downtown Palmer and at the Alaska State Fairgrounds. So, check each organizer’s website for current dates, and plan your visit to Palmer, Alaska.